Simon Cowell was "absolutely shellshocked" to learn he was about to become a dad — but he's privately vowed to "step up" and take responsibility for the love child.

The X Factor mogul is facing claims he committed an "unbelievable story of betrayal" in getting New York socialite Lauren Silverman pregnant, behind the back of his friend, real estate developer Andrew Silverman.

A source close to Cowell, 53, told Breaking Celebrity News: "To say Simon was shellshocked when Lauren told him she was pregnant would be an understatement.

"The news stunned Simon because he absolutely had no plans on becoming a father at this time, if ever. Simon loves his life being single and not having to answer to anyone and that